The MiG-21, one of the most iconic fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF), was officially decommissioned on September 26, 2025, after serving the country for more than six decades. Known for its speed, agility, and combat record, the Russian-origin aircraft had been an important part of India’s air defence since it was first inducted in the 1960s.
The decommissioning ceremony was held at the Chandigarh Air Force Station and witnessed the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh. During the event, Air Chief Marshal Singh handed over the Form 700 of the MiG-21 to the Defence Minister, officially marking the retirement of the aircraft.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called the MiG-21 a “national pride” and praised the aircraft for its immense contribution to the Indian Air Force over the decades. He said, “As we give a send-off to MiG-21, we are also giving a farewell to a chapter that will be written in golden letters in India’s military aviation history.” He highlighted that the MiG-21 was a symbol of India-Russia friendship and a testament to decades of cooperation in defence technology.
The Defence Minister further said that the MiG-21 had always flown with the honour of the national flag, completing historic missions and defending the country with courage. “This farewell is not just for the aircraft, but for our collective memories, national pride, and the journey of sacrifice, bravery, and excellence,” he added.
During the retirement ceremony, the Form 700 of the MiG-21 was handed over to the Defence Minister. Form 700 is a technical logbook that is maintained for every aircraft while it is in service. It is considered a critical document because it contains a complete record of the aircraft’s maintenance, technical issues, and malfunctions throughout its operational life.
The Form 700 records all repairs, upgrades, and routine maintenance performed on the aircraft. It also includes details of any issues faced during flights and notes about parts that may have been replaced or repaired. This helps ensure that the aircraft is safe and fully functional for operational use.
Flight engineers, pilots, and ground maintenance teams rely heavily on Form 700. Flight engineers use it to communicate technical problems to the maintenance team, while ground staff uses it to record repairs and inspections. The document ensures that every aspect of the aircraft’s functioning is monitored and maintained efficiently, making it a vital part of aviation safety.
In addition to technical issues, Form 700 also lists onboard requirements for the aircraft’s maintenance. This includes details about spare parts, tools, and equipment needed for repairs. By keeping such detailed records, the IAF ensures that every aircraft operates at peak efficiency and safety throughout its service life.
The MiG-21 holds a special place in India’s aviation history. Over the years, it has participated in numerous conflicts and missions, including the Indo-Pak wars of 1965, 1971, and later operations. Known for its speed, maneuverability, and lightweight design, it became one of the most reliable fighter jets in the Indian Air Force fleet.
Despite its age, the MiG-21 continued to serve in active duty until recently. Its retirement marks the end of an era but also paves the way for more modern aircraft to take over its role in India’s air defence. Over its 60-year service, the MiG-21 earned respect not only for its performance but also for its contribution to training generations of Indian pilots.
The retirement ceremony was attended by several officers and personnel who had flown or maintained the MiG-21 over the years. Many expressed emotional farewells, sharing memories of the aircraft’s performance and its role in defending the nation. For many, the MiG-21 is not just an aircraft but a symbol of India’s military heritage and aviation excellence.
The handing over of the Form 700 during the ceremony signifies the formal retirement of the aircraft. It preserves a complete record of its operational history for archival and reference purposes. Future generations of pilots and engineers can study the document to learn about the aircraft’s design, performance, and maintenance requirements.
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The retirement of the MiG-21 opens up space in the IAF fleet for modern fighter jets such as the Rafale, Tejas, and Su-30MKI, which are equipped with advanced avionics, weapons systems, and longer operational ranges. While these aircraft represent the future of Indian air power, the MiG-21 will always be remembered as a trailblazer that shaped India’s aerial defence capabilities.
The MiG-21’s decommissioning is not just a farewell to an aircraft but a tribute to decades of service, bravery, and technological progress. The Form 700 ensures that the MiG-21’s entire operational record is preserved for history, symbolizing the meticulous care and discipline that keep an air force strong and efficient.
In conclusion, the MiG-21 has left a lasting legacy in India’s military aviation history. Its retirement, marked by the handing over of Form 700, is a reminder of the importance of documentation, maintenance, and operational excellence in the life of any aircraft. The farewell also celebrates the pilots, engineers, and technicians who kept the aircraft flying safely for over 60 years.
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